Things to Do in Louisiana This Weekend
Whether you're a culture seeker, food aficionado, outdoor adventurer or history lover, Louisiana is filled with opportunities to #FeedYourSoul.
Here's a roundup of Louisiana events and activities happening this weekend.
Winter in Louisiana doesn’t last long, but it sparkles with seasonal celebrations. From New Year’s events to Twelfth Night festivities and early Mardi Gras parades, there’s always something to enjoy. Hit the road for a scenic drive, explore a local museum or warm up with beignets and chicory coffee at a local café.
Cinema on the Bayou
January 21-28
Lafayette
Louisiana’s second-oldest film festival spans eight days and screens more than 120 films. The week kicks off with the U.S. premiere of "R. Roussil: From the Ground Up," followed by a Q&A with the filmmaker and a gala reception. Throughout the festival, enjoy narrative fiction, documentary, animated and experimental films from around the world — and join debates with fellow movie lovers.
Cap off the night with a craft beer at Adopted Dog Brewing. Sip light-bodied lagers, hoppy ales and hazy IPAs, or opt for a “beertail,” a traditional cocktail with a craft brew twist.
Algiers Mardi Gras Festival
January 24
New Orleans
Get into the Carnival spirit at the Algiers Mardi Gras Festival, a free, family-friendly event in the historic New Orleans neighborhood of Algiers. Watch a parade featuring local marching bands, dancers and cultural groups, then enjoy live performances by the Marine Jazz Band and Amanda Shaw, among others.
Take the kiddos to the Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium, which transports visitors to diverse habitats from tranquil Louisiana bayous to the vibrant Caribbean. The Insectarium houses mesmerizing butterflies and lightning bugs, plus an immersive garden with 20 distinct species.
Annual Spring Gardening Seminar
January 24
West Monroe
Proud plant parents, get your tickets to the Annual Spring Gardening Seminar presented by the Northeast Louisiana Master Gardeners. Hear lectures by conservationists Johnny Armstrong, Bradley McCollough and Austin Klais, and mix and mingle with fellow plant lovers.
Your next stop should be the Biedenharn Museum & Gardens, home to a walled English garden with thousands of flowering plants in a number of thematic settings. While you’re there, take a tour of the Coke Museum, with two exhibit rooms filled with Coca-Cola memorabilia, and the Bible Museum, which houses an unmatched collection of rare and historically significant Bibles.
Arbor Day
January 24
Ville Platte
Did you know the state of Louisiana has its own Arbor Day? It’s held on the third Friday of January but commemorated throughout the month at Louisiana state parks and preservation areas. The Louisiana State Arboretum State Preservation Area is marking the occasion with activities, hikes and a tree-seedling giveaway!
While you’re in the Swamp Pop Capital of the World, take a moment to learn more about its history at the Louisiana Swamp Pop Museum. This restored Southern Pacific train depot tells the unique genre’s story through costumes, photos, records and other memorabilia.
Learn more about Evangeline Parish.
Folsom Camellia Festival
January 24
Folsom
If the American South had its own official flower, it might just be the camellia. These beloved blossoms are found throughout the state, but GiddyUp Folsom’s annual Camellia Festival showcases the best of the best. See award-winning blooms, shop at the Paddock Farmers Market and tour the community garden.
Want to go on a safari without leaving Louisiana? Just 10 minutes away, you’ll find the Global Wildlife Center, home to giraffes, zebras, kangaroos, camels and more. Take a wagon tour to touch and feed animals, while learning about each species from an experienced guide.
Krewe de Canine
January 24
St. Francisville
One of the most adorable Mardi Gras traditions involves fabulous dressed-up pups and tail-wagging fun. The Krewe de Canine parade invites dog owners and their four-legged friends to parade through the charming town of St. Francisville. Not a dog parent yet? Enjoy the parade, then meet your new best friend at the on-site adoption area!
Explore downtown St. Francisville, a quaint, walkable neighborhood with more than a dozen shops selling antiques, art and gifts. District Mercantile, a local favorite, opened in the 1890s as a general store and now offers branded goods and antiques.
Plan your trip to St. Francisville.
Discovery Day: Battle of New Orleans
January 24
Baton Rouge
History buff — or got one in the family? Bring the whole crew to the Capitol Park Museum for Discovery Day: Battle of New Orleans. This hands-on educational program teaches visitors about Louisiana’s role in the War of 1812. Adults can wander the Louisiana at War gallery, while the kids will enjoy creating a miniature cannon out of a film canister.
There’s no shortage of family-friendly restaurants in Baton Rouge. Head to Curbside Burgers for comfort food in the form of burgers, sandwiches and nuggets, plus a fully stocked kids menu.
Intergalactic Krewe of Chewbacchus
January 24
New Orleans
The Intergalactic Krewe of Chewbacchus is sure to be a sci-fi fanatic’s favorite krewe, and its epic parades don’t disappoint. This year’s theme, “Rebellions Are Built on Hope,” promises elaborate floats, vibrant costumes and generous throws — if the Force is with you.
Spend a day exploring all things nerdy in New Orleans. Crescent City Comics stocks new, back-issue and vintage comics and graphic novels, as well as trading cards and collectibles. Go 4 Games in Metairie sells trading cards, video games and consoles, and hosts weekly gaming competitions.
Celebrate Mardi Gras
Statewide
Of the hundreds of festivals in Louisiana, none tops Mardi Gras. Witness spectacular parades, dazzling costumes and magical galas. Not to mention, Louisiana king cake can’t be beat. Find Mardi Gras celebrations across Louisiana.
Make Plans for Louisiana This Month
Whether it's one of our many exciting festivals or an adventure in the great outdoors, there is always something unique to experience in Louisiana. Be sure to check our calendar of events for the most up-to-date list of festivities.
